What do conservatives truly believe?

In this compelling and thought-provoking manifesto, New York Times bestselling author and former Vice President Mike Pence presents a modern-day companion to The Conscience of a Conservative. Drawing on decades of public service and leadership within the conservative movement, Pence makes a persuasive case for why the Republican Party should remain grounded in enduring conservative principles rather than embrace the allure of expansive government populism.

Conservatives understand that wisdom often begins with learning from those who came before us. As Barry Goldwater famously argued, conservative ideals endure because they are anchored in timeless truths. Yet this book is not simply a reflection on history. It is a forward-looking examination of how proven conservative values can address the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Pence explores why conservatives believe our rights are endowed by God and outlines conservative perspectives on issues including the sanctity of life, limited government, public safety, economic opportunity, fiscal responsibility, federalism, education, family values, national defense, and support for Israel. He also highlights the importance of character, civility, and principled leadership in American public life.

Few public figures have demonstrated the dedication and conviction that former Congressman, Governor, and Vice President Pence has shown throughout his career. At a time when many Americans are uncertain about the meaning and relevance of conservatism, Pence offers a clear and thoughtful explanation of the values that have shaped the movement for generations.

In What Conservatives Believe, Pence discusses the enduring significance of conservative principles with clarity, humility, and candor. As he often remarks, "I'm a conservative, but I'm not in a bad mood about it." Combining personal experience with political insight, Pence delivers a timely and influential work that seeks to define conservatism for a new generation of readers. The Ideas Behind the Beliefs is a plain language companion to Mike Pence’s What Conservatives Believe: Rediscovering the Conservative Conscience. This guide breaks down each major idea from the main book into simple explanations without big words or complicated theories. You will learn where conservative principles come from, why limited government matters, and how to spot big government populism. Each of the ten chapters includes short subchapters and practical exercises to help you build your own conservative conscience. This book is a companion guide to What Conservatives Believe by Mike Pence.